Bella is the Big 5! (But Still our Baby)

Isabella Bleau was born 5 years ago, mid afternoon, on a cool rainy fall day. She surprised us by her weight of almost 9 pounds. When I first saw her I did not know who this little person was. I didn't recognize her, it was almost unsettling, but when Pat brought Maddy and Katie by my bedside I was instantly at peace and felt the most joy I have ever experienced. MY family was here, all of them. It was the happiest day of my life and to remember that moment still brings tears to my eyes. We were a family, but Bella completed us. I felt that my "baby shelf" in Heaven was finally empty. We all made it and were together.
Five years seems like a long time, but I know it is just a flash in the span of life, so we like to celebrate every birthday with style and, usually, more than one party.
Bella was determined to have a Wizard of Oz themed "friend" party. I had a lot of fun with decorating and making invitations.

We even found the cutest lunchbox that Bella uses to carry many of her very special things. Mostly makeup.

Maddy and her BFF, Rylie, were a big help at the party and dressed the part.

I had not one thing to do with their costumes, but I was so grateful to have a responsible, fun loving 11 year old to help me with a house full of 5 year olds.

Maddy photo shopped this picture and has displayed it in her room, locker and on her Face Book page.

Lydia Walker, Bella and Cousin Anna.

5 balloon candles to represent the hot air balloon Dorothy planned to escape the Emerald City on. (Bella still doesn't understand why Toto jumped out.)

Bella thought she was so big because she got to have a "Friend Party"

Here is the Wicked Witch...

She was quickly destroyed and the candy was quickly consumed.

Happy Birthday, Bella, from all your many friends!!

This picture was taken the morning of Bella's actual birthday. She kept asking if she was "really" five.

Grandma Lucy spent the night and Bella woke up to a very special tea set she had wanted.

But... what is in the huge garbage sack?? She thinks it's a mini Book Mobile.

No, Silly. It is the Barbie camper you begged me for at Costco.

Later that evening, we celebrated again with Pat's family. How many presents can one little get??

Nice, a Barbie that allows you to cut her hair!!

Happy Birthday to You!

Happy Birthday Baby. Thank you for coming into my heart and home.

I love you.